Mexico earthquake: 7.3 magnitude quake strikes Chiapas, tsunami alert issued and lifted

A powerful 7.3-magnitude earthquake rattled the coast of Mexico's Chiapas state on Friday, July 18, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The tremor struck at a shallow depth of about 15 kilometers, with its epicenter near the border of Mexico and Guatemala.

The earthquake triggered a tsunami threat alert for parts of Mexico and Guatemala. However, the US Tsunami Warning System confirmed the threat had passed after monitoring stations recorded only minor sea level changes. The agency advised continued caution for those near the coast.

Despite the strong shaking felt across Mexico, Guatemala, and El Salvador, authorities reported no immediate deaths or significant structural damage. Residents rushed into the streets for safety as the tremor intensified. In Mexico City, the earthquake alert system did not activate due to the quake's initial energy levels. Civil protection in Tapachula, Chiapas, reported damage to only one building.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated the government was assessing structural impacts and coordinating preventive measures. The earthquake occurred during her morning news conference. In Guatemala, the quake caused people to evacuate buildings and flood the streets during rush hour, with residents expressing fear due to the prolonged shaking.

Mexico's southern coast is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for seismic activity. The Cocos oceanic plate subducts beneath the North American plate, creating friction that can lead to intense earthquakes. While this recent tremor caused no reported fatalities, the region has experienced deadly earthquakes in the past.

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remain observant and exercise normal caution at sea